The Original Key West Ghost Hunt

Discover Key West’s Darker Side with The Original Ghost Hunt

The Original Key West Ghost Hunt offers an engaging twist on traditional ghost tours in Key West, USA. Priced at just $28 per person, this 1.5-hour tour provides more than stories — it includes hands-on ghost hunting using dowsing rods, EMF meters, and spirit boards. Starting at 9:00 pm from 301 Whitehead St, the tour takes you through several haunted spots around Old Town before finishing at The Studios of Key West.

What makes this tour stand out is the focus on interactive ghost hunting equipment and visits to locations with notable haunted histories. It’s ideal for those curious about the supernatural and seeking a more immersive experience. While the tour features some dark stories and ghostly investigations, it remains accessible to most, with a moderate physical level required.

It’s important to book at least 13 days in advance to secure a spot, as this experience tends to fill up quickly. The mix of history, ghost stories, and practical ghost hunting gear makes it a memorable evening for anyone interested in the spooky side of Key West.

Key Points

• Interactive ghost hunting with dowsing rods, EMF meters, and spirit boards
• Visits multiple haunted locations including 301 Whitehead St and Audubon House
• Includes exclusive access into The Studios of Key West, once a Masonic Lodge
• Guides are knowledgeable and engaging, with many reviews praising their storytelling skills
• Tour duration is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes starting at 9:00 pm
• Limited to 16 participants, making for a personal experience

The Tour Starts at 301 Whitehead Street in Key West

The adventure begins at First Flight restaurant and microbrewery, where the guide introduces the tour and shares who is believed to haunt this historic aviation site. The 10-minute initial stop is free with your ticket and sets the tone for the evening’s spooky discoveries.

From there, the guide leads the group through Old Town Key West, pointing out various haunted locations along Whitehead Street and nearby streets. The tour emphasizes local haunted stories, including tales about haunted dolls, hangings, and unsolved murders, making the history come alive with ghostly intrigue.

Visiting the Audubon House’s Haunted Reputation

One of the key stops features the Audubon House, a charming and historic house with a reputation for paranormal activity. As the guide recounts stories, visitors get a sense of the house’s dark past and the spirits said to linger within its walls. The haunted history adds a spine-tingling element to the tour, especially for those interested in specific haunted residences.

Passing Duval Street’s Ghostly Tales

While walking along Duval Street, the guide shares captivating stories about haunting tales, hanging trees, and haunted dolls. The lively street scene contrasts with the dark stories, providing a fascinating juxtaposition of colorful Key West and its darker history. The tour also mentions an unsolved murder in Shots and Giggles, adding a layer of mystery to the walk.

Inside Shots and Giggles’ Murdered Patron Story

The shots and giggles pub is another highlight — specifically, the story of a man murdered there. The guide explains the ghostly legends connected to this bar, giving visitors a tangible link between the physical location and its haunted reputation. Many find this stop particularly intriguing, thanks to its tangible history and ghost stories.

Concluding at The Studios of Key West with Ghost Hunting Equipment

The final part of the tour takes visitors into The Studios of Key West, an arts venue that was once a Masonic Lodge and Temple. Here, the group gets exclusive access to the building, using ghost hunting tools to explore if any spirits are still present. This hands-on experience with dowsing rods, EMF meters, and spirit boards is a major highlight, especially appreciated in reviews where guests praise the engagement and enthusiasm of the guides.

The Benefits of Using Ghost Hunting Equipment

Throughout the tour, the guide encourages interaction with the provided equipment, making the experience more immersive. Many guests enjoy trying to detect ghosts themselves, and some reviews highlight the added entertainment value of using tools like dowsing rods and EMF meters. It turns ghost stories into a participatory adventure, rather than just passive listening.

Expert Guides Make the Difference

The tour’s success largely depends on the guides, with many reviews praising their knowledge, storytelling skills, and enthusiasm. Guides like Ted, Yvonne, Kim, and Samantha are noted for their ability to blend facts with engaging stories, making the experience both educational and fun. Guests appreciate guides who answer questions kindly and share their own research, adding depth to the ghost tales.

Logistics and Group Size

With a maximum group size of 16 guests, the tour remains intimate and interactive. The meeting point at 301 Whitehead St is centrally located, and the tour is near public transportation, making it easy to access. The walks are moderate in length, with some inside locations, so a moderate physical fitness level is recommended.

What to Expect and What Not to Expect

While the tour offers many haunted stories and use of ghost-hunting equipment, some guests express mixed opinions about the overall substance. Reviews vary from full praise for guides and experience to criticisms citing less focus on actual hauntings or disappointing locations. It’s recommended primarily for those interested in interactive ghost hunting and local haunted legends.

Pricing and Booking Considerations

At $28 per person, the tour is considered good value for the 1.5-hour experience, especially given the hands-on elements and access to haunted buildings. Advanced booking is recommended, as the tour is booked on average 13 days in advance. The ticket includes the use of ghost-hunting equipment and the guided experience but excludes food and drink.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, receiving a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable, so planning ahead is advisable. The tour is also weather-dependent, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if it’s canceled due to poor weather.

Final Thoughts on The Original Key West Ghost Hunt

This tour offers a unique blend of history, storytelling, and ghost-hunting fun that appeals to a wide range of visitors. The interactive use of ghost-hunting tools and visits to haunted locations with dark histories add excitement beyond traditional ghost walks. The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm elevate the experience, creating a personal and engaging atmosphere.

While some may find the content less compelling if they are skeptics or expecting highly documented hauntings, the tour remains a solid choice for those curious about Key West’s spooky side. It’s especially suitable for families, groups, or anyone eager to explore the island’s darker stories in an active, participatory way.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ghost tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 9:00 pm from 301 Whitehead St in Key West.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, reviews mention that it’s not scary and appropriate for all ages.

What will I do during the tour?
You’ll visit multiple haunted locations, learn their stories, and use ghost-hunting equipment like dowsing rods, EMF meters, and spirit boards.

Are the locations inside or outside?
Most walking is outside, but the final visit to The Studios of Key West is indoors, allowing for hands-on ghost investigations.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise the guides for their historical knowledge, storytelling, and enthusiasm.

What is included in the price?
The use of ghost-hunting equipment and a local guide are included. The ticket price is $28 per person.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour crowded?
No, group sizes are limited to 16 guests, ensuring a more personal experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, moderate clothing suitable for walking outdoors is recommended.

Can I bring a service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

What if I want a different date?
Changes and cancellations are only accepted more than 24 hours in advance.

This The Original Key West Ghost Hunt provides a fun, interactive, and spooky way to explore Key West’s haunted side, blending history with hands-on ghost hunting. Its affordable price and personalized experience make it a compelling choice for those eager to uncover the island’s darker secrets.